Bandits attack Zamfara mosque, abduct dozens of worshippers

Bandits have reportedly attacked a mosque in Birnin Yaro village in Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State, abducting several worshippers.

According to security analyst and counter-insurgency expert, Zagazola Makama, the attack was led by Bello Turji, a notorious bandits’ kingpin and his armed men during Isha prayers around 7:30 PM on Sunday, January 12, 2025. 

The attackers reportedly herded the victims into the forest. The exact number of those kidnapped remains unknown. It was also gathered that the bandits killed a shopkeeper in the area.

A source said Turji may be planning to use the people as a shield against an attack on his enclave by the Nigerian troops of Operation FANSAN YANMMA.

There has been a spike in the spate of kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria’s northern region in recent times.

Last week, at least 46 people, including women and children, were kidnapped in a raid on Gana town in Zamfara state.

Dozens of gunmen on motorbikes reportedly attacked the town, shooting sporadically and setting fire to several homes and businesses.

In December, at least 43 persons were abducted by gunmen in Kakidawa, Gidan Goga district, Maradun LGA of the state.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen shot sporadically, causing residents to scamper into nearby bushes.

They said the gunmen then conducted a house-to-house search, abducting women and children who were unable to escape.